ABC Australia Plus partners internationally

ABC INTERNATIONAL’s multi-platform international media service Australia Plus (A+) has announced new partnerships to boost Australia’s regional multi-media presence and extend ABC content to neighbouring countries.

The foundation partnerships are with Monash University, the Victorian State Government and Swisse Wellness, in what is ABC’s hybrid development of collaborative commercial relationships.

Monash University is one of Australia’s leading international research and education institutions wanting to extend its educational services regionally. The Victorian State Government is promoting as one of Australia’s prime tourist and business destinations.

Swisse Wellness, probably Australia’s leading natural health brand, is eager to boost its profile and promote natural health in the Asia-Pacific region, having made a name sponsoring a variety of sports including Formuula 1 motor racing.

ABC International chief executive officer, Lynley Marshall, said Australia Plus would build its strong presence in the region and develop its growing audience base through meaningful partnerships with Australian businesses aligned to the same purpose. Other partners are expected to be announced over coming months.

Ms Marshall, said this commercial collaboration would deliver great benefit to foundation partners, as well as strengthen Australia’s relationship with audiences in neighbouring countries by “showcasing Australia to the Asia-Pacific region”.

“ABC International has built a network of media partners across the region, extending the reach of Australia Plus content and establishing a valuable platform for presenting Australian stories.” Ms Marshall said.

“Partnering with a respected institution like Monash University, organisations like the Victorian State Government and businesses such as Swisse, offer us enormous potential to showcase Australian life including education, tourism and business, to audiences in the region.”

Monash president and vice-chancellor, Margaret Gardner said the partnership agreement with ABC International “gives Monash unprecedented exposure and reach in key Asia-Pacific countries and assists us communicate the scale, scope and excellence of our research and education and our global impact”.

Victorian Government Trade Minister, Philip Dalidakis said, “This exclusive relationship with ABC International is a great opportunity for Victoria to showcase that we really do have ‘the best of everything’ – and grow our reputation as the innovation, trade, tourism, major events, food and fashion capital of Australia.”

Swisse chief executive Radek Sali said, “Our mission at Swisse is to make people around the world healthier and happier, and through this exciting partnership we will be able to take our message to a number of new regions and audiences.

“It also gives us the opportunity to learn more about our different consumers’ needs, so as we launch into new countries we tailor our approach to suit.”

Australia Plus, ABC International’s multi-platform international media service, was launched in 2014 and is currently available to 190 million people across Asia and the Pacific via online, social media and TV, including to Indonesia, China, Singapore, India, Malaysia and Vietnam. Broadcasts and online channels are in languages including Mandarin, Bahasa Indonesia and Tok Pisin.

ABC International is a commercial operation and is permitted under the ABC Act to partner with commercial organisations, a model similar to the BBC Worldservice. ABC International retains full editorial control over all content under the ABC Australia Plus brand.